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10 Pieces of Business Advice from Powerful Women

Business is full of challenges and difficult choices, no matter what stage of a career you’re at.

So, to help, we’ve collated ten pieces of business advice from powerful women, to guide you in the right direction. Read on to discover the career tips every woman should follow – from women who have already made it:

Be dedicated

The renowned career of Estée Lauder all came from one unshakable motivating factor: “I never dreamed about success. I worked for it.” Being dedicated to your work, despite any pitfalls, is vital to reaching that next step up the career ladder and making those dreams of yours a reality.

Take risks

Whether you want to work for yourself or are keen to pitch a big new idea to your current company, trust in the wise words of one of the most influential women in history, Eleanor Roosevelt: “Do one thing every day that scares you.” Taking risks is undoubtedly involved in every successful career, so make it part of yours. Though remember, it’s not about being the ‘bravest’, but about taking the right risks for you.

Be confident

Tina Fay gives a great piece of business advice regarding confidence in the workplace. She believes that, “Confidence is 10 percent hard work and 90 percent delusion. Just thinking foolishly that you will be able to do what you want to do.” Sometimes we have adopt the mantra ‘fake it ’till you make it’ and go with what we instinctively believe is the right decision. Trust us, it’ll work out in the end.

Take constructive criticism well

Criticism of any form can be hard to swallow, but Hillary Clinton was correct in saying, “Learn how to take criticism seriously, but not personally.” Clinton is one of the most powerful women in the world, however even she is aware of the need to take constructive criticism. See it as an invitation to self-improvement and a lesson to learn from. By adopting this productive approach you can put a positive spin on something that could otherwise be destructive.

Never give up

Candace Bushnell may be best known for her relationship advice, but she also has some incredible career advice that needs to be followed. She said, “All you need is a work ethic. It’s what allows you to push through moments of disappointment and self-doubt and fear.” So, take a leaf out of Bushnell’s book and keep up the hard work. It will pay off soon.

Be forward thinking

The inimitable Anna Wintour undoubtedly knows a thing or two about business, to say the least, and she has always stated, “Fashion only goes in one direction – forward – and I am a firm believer in thinking that way too.” Listen to business advice from the woman who knows best and never get into the rut of ‘doing it how it’s always been done’.

Be goal focused but plan flexible

As Martha Stewart once said, “Stick with it. Don’t give up. Defend your ideas, but be flexible. Success seldom comes in exactly the form you imagine it will.” Believe in your ambition, but if Plan A doesn’t work do not be afraid to defer to Plan B or to listen to alternative suggestions. It may be the key to moving that bit closer to your goal.

Never apologise for voicing your opinion

Take Beyoncé’s approach to telling it like it is: “I’m not bossy. I’m the boss.” As long as you voice your opinion respectfully, listen to others, and honestly try to reach the best compromise possible, never apologise for speaking your mind. Remember you are in charge of your career.

Be a leader

Becoming a leader or taking a first shot at something is a daunting task, but keep in mind the life advice from Emma Watson’s powerful speech, “If not me, who? If not now, when?” That new business venture could be exactly what your desired clientele are after, and you could be the one that can make it happen.

Believe in yourself

Note to self: repeat in the mirror every morning the motto of Tyra Banks, “You have what it takes to be a victorious independent fearless woman.” Remember this and you will go far.

So, there you have it, ten pieces of business advice from powerful women. We hope you feel inspired and will keep these in mind when you next step through those office doors!

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